Catering Sales Manager

Catering Sales & Events Manager - Acclaimed Boutique Hotel

Stunning and historic One Key Michelin property is looking for an experienced and self-motivated  Catering Sales & Events Manager to join the team! This is a dynamic, high-energy role that will be responsible for leading the events department, including but not limited to business development, building BEO’s, networking, driving revenue/sales, processing and managing leads, and supporting clients through the event planning and preparation process. The ideal candidate has a proven background in both private event/catering sales and private events management/execution, and is closely connected with the local LA community, preferably in the West LA market. Looking for someone who can bring a well-established book of business and strong existing client/vendor relationships in order to grow the property’s event department and boost revenue. This is a great opportunity for a true go-getter with a vibrant, hospitality-forward personality to make an immediate and measurable impact at an incredible property with a lot of untapped potential!

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for helping to sell private functions, including meeting with clients to determine needs, meeting those needs, and exceeding their expectations through detailed communication
• Research, identify, and pursue new client relationships and business opportunities through strategic outreach and introduction
• Networking inside and outside the property to obtain leads and build relationships with new and existing clients
• Receiving, organizing, and processing incoming event leads, ensuring smooth communication and follow-through
• Work directly with clients and event planners to understand their needs and bring their vision to life
• Spearhead the building of BEOs and assist with any associated administrative tasks
• Developing new business relationships and opportunities to increase private events and drive sales
• Maximize revenue through expert promotion and relatability
• Respond promptly to inquiries from clients and prospective new clientele
• Proactively solicit and manage event/catering opportunities with high revenue potential
• Maintain a high-level of communication with the client throughout the event process (pre-event, event, post-event)
• Lead all client site inspections
• Provide a high level of service to both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that all event details are clear and executed flawlessly
• Utilize event software platforms to manage bookings, track leads, and streamline processes
• Maintain professionalism when managing expectations and negotiating with clients, ensuring their vision is met while respecting the venue’s standards
• Support a team-oriented environment, working alongside an Event Coordinator and Sales Director to ensure all operational aspects are handled effectively
• Be flexible and adapt to various event schedules, adjusting for busy event periods and accommodating client needs
• Attend and support all on-site event functions and execution as needed

Candidate Qualifications:

• 3-4+ years of experience as an Event Sales Manager, Catering Sales Manager, Events/Catering Operations Manager, Banquet Manager, Catering/Event Sales Director, or comparable role in a full-service, fine-dining, multi-use restaurant or boutique/luxury hotel environment is required
• Prior experience with both private event sales and private events management/execution is required
• Any prior exposure to luxury/boutique hotels, private clubs, or comparable hospitality venues is strongly preferred
• Proven understanding of the Los Angeles events market, with a strong preference for the West LA market specifically
• Strong knowledge of competitor’s strengths and weaknesses, economic trends, supply and demand, etc.
• Candidates who are local to Los Angeles with a strong book of existing contacts are highly preferred
• Proven track record of sales performance along with marketing/prospecting programs that drive event revenue
• Creative selling ability to close on business and negotiate contracts
• High energy, collaborative, and outgoing personality
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Inherent passion for high-quality food, beverage, and service
• Strong organizational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Familiarity with event management software and systems
• Solid understanding of event revenue generation
• Ability to work well under pressure, maintaining composure in high-stress situations
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with a polished, customer-facing demeanor and strong communication abilities
• Strong emotional intelligence, able to deal with difficult or demanding clients in a calm, professional manner
• An understanding of event pricing, budgets, and the competitive landscape in Los Angeles
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the demands of the event schedule, with a willingness to work varied hours
• A polished, fashion-forward appearance with the ability to represent the venue's sophisticated brand
• A self-starter who can jump into the role immediately and make an impact
• Commitment to providing excellent service to guests and support to staff members

Compensation & Benefits Include:

• Base Salary in the $85-90k range DOE (paid hourly + budgeted OT)
• Structured Incentive Plan
• Full Medical and Dental Benefits
• 401k
• PTO Plan